Physical Therapist (PT)

Physical Therapist (PT) – Long-Term Care Facility

Position Title: Physical Therapist (PT)
Department: Rehabilitation Services
Reports To: Director of Rehabilitation

Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

The Physical Therapist evaluates, plans, and administers individualized physical therapy programs for residents in a long-term care facility. The PT works to improve mobility, strength, balance, pain management, and overall functional independence while promoting the highest possible quality of life. The therapist collaborates with physicians, nursing staff, residents, families, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure comprehensive patient care.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive physical therapy evaluations and assessments.
• Develop individualized treatment plans based on residents' needs, goals, and physician orders.
• Provide therapeutic exercises, gait training, balance training, transfer training, and mobility interventions.
• Assess and recommend adaptive equipment, assistive devices, and mobility aids.
• Monitor resident progress and modify treatment plans as appropriate.
• Educate residents, families, and caregivers on therapy goals, exercises, safety precautions, and discharge planning.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in accordance with facility, state, federal, and payer requirements.
• Participate in interdisciplinary care planning meetings.
• Ensure compliance with Medicare, Medicaid, and other regulatory guidelines.
• Collaborate with occupational therapists, speech therapists, nursing staff, and physicians to coordinate resident care.
• Maintain a safe treatment environment and follow infection control procedures.
• Assist with fall prevention initiatives and mobility programs throughout the facility.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited Physical Therapy program.
• Current Physical Therapist license in the state of employment.
• CPR certification preferred.
• Previous experience in long-term care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, or geriatric care preferred.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and documentation skills.
• Knowledge of rehabilitation techniques, therapeutic modalities, and regulatory requirements.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and lift residents or equipment as needed.
• Ability to transfer and assist residents with mobility activities.
• Ability to frequently lift up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift more with assistance.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced healthcare environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of geriatric rehabilitation principles.
• Strong clinical assessment and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to develop effective treatment plans and measurable goals.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Commitment to resident-centered care and maintaining resident dignity.

Work Environment

• Long-term care facility, skilled nursing facility, or rehabilitation center.
• Frequent interaction with elderly residents, families, healthcare providers, and support staff.
• Exposure to communicable diseases and healthcare-related hazards consistent with healthcare settings.